Dutch Teen Begins Sail Around the World

by Teen Vogue

Laura Dekker, 14, is determined to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. After a year-long legal battle with the Dutch child protection agencies that attempted to block her voyage, Laura sailed off from the Netherlands this morning. Her parents gave Laura their blessings, but authorities continually expressed concerns over her safety and mental health.

To make matters even more complicated, Laura's trip comes on the heels of 16-year-old American teen Abby Sunderland's rescue at sea. Abby too wanted to sail around the world solo, but in June, she was rescued in the Indian Ocean. The news media attacked Abby's parents, particularly in the wake of rumors that her father was attempting to sell a reality TV show based on his daughter's experience.

Even though the Guinness Book of World Records and the World Sailing Speed Record Council have agreed to stop recognizing records for youngest sailors, personal ambition, overzealous parents, and competitive teens may nonetheless turn the sail around the world into a rat race.

Should teens be allowed to complete such dangerous journeys alone? Is it the government's place to step in, or should this be a family matter? Sound off!